Ballina Byron Gateway Airport has suspended multiple flights as Tropical Cyclone Alfred brings strong winds to northern New South Wales and southeast Queensland. Jetstar, Qantas, and Virgin Australia have all cancelled services in and out of the airport, affecting hundreds of passengers.
Jetstar has scrapped flights JQ459 and JQ461 from Sydney, as well as JQ465 from Melbourne. Three outbound flights from Ballina have also been cancelled. Qantas has halted flights QF2062 and QF2063, while Virgin Australia has cancelled VA1139 and VA1140.
Residents along the southeast Queensland coast are on high alert as Tropical Cyclone Alfred moves closer to land. As of 10:00 am AEST, the Category 2 cyclone was located 345 kilometres east of Brisbane. It is producing sustained winds of 95 km/h, with gusts reaching up to 130 km/h.
The cyclone is expected to maintain its strength as it approaches the coast. Landfall is predicted early Friday morning between Maroochydore and Coolangatta. A warning zone has been established from Double Island Point in Queensland to Grafton in New South Wales. This includes major cities such as Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Byron Bay.
Authorities are urging residents to prepare for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous conditions over the next few days.
Qantas Prioritizes Safety Amid Disruptions
A Qantas spokesperson emphasized that safety is the airline’s top priority. “Our teams are closely monitoring the cyclone, and we are contacting customers directly with any changes to their flights,” the spokesperson said.
The airline is coordinating with airport authorities, air traffic control, and service providers to ensure timely updates for passengers and staff. “We have proactively cancelled several flights today from southeast Queensland and northern NSW,” the spokesperson added.
The situation remains fluid, with further cancellations and delays expected in the coming days. Passengers are advised to check the Qantas app, Qantas.com, Jetstar.com, and their email or SMS for updates.
“We thank our customers for their patience and understanding during this time,” the spokesperson said.
Residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed and follow official advice as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.
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